Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

This recipe makes a rich and creamy baked mac and cheese with penne pasta, bacon, onion, and garlic in a creamy white sauce loaded with Cheddar.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Calories: 570 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 slices bacon

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Bake uncovered in preheated oven until cheese on top is melted and brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm.

Step 3

Cook pasta in a large pot with boiling salted water until al dente. Drain.

Step 4

Meanwhile, place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, then crumble and set aside. Add onion and garlic into the skillet; cook and stir in bacon grease until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and add chopped cooked bacon; set aside.

Step 5

To make the sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat; add flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes. Gradually add milk and continue stirring until thickened. Stir in 2 cups of the grated Cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 6

Combine cooked pasta, bacon and onion mixture, and white sauce; pour into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese on top.